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Since insomnia affects over 20 million individuals each year, it is important to know the different ways you can overcome the symptoms and potentially risky effects of having insomnia. While those with a mild insomnia are not at any serious risk, those with severe insomnia problems have higher mortality rates.

One of the easiest methods for alleviating insomnia is using relaxation techniques in your daily life. This can be used alongside other methods as well. Relaxation techniques include meditation, yoga, and muscle relaxation. Meditation is one of the most popular, but it is difficult to master.

Changing your eating habits and lifestyle can make a big difference. You should try these before going to the doctor to seek any treatment. In many cases your diet, especially if it is high in fat or caffeine, can play a negative role in your sleep cycle. Eating too much processed sugar is also problematic and can cause insomnia problems, and active dreams that may keep you awake through the night.

Hot baths are an excellent muscle relaxer. The hot water opens your blood vessels and that extra blood flow relaxes the muscles and body, signaling it to rest. This might not be a great idea for the summer months, but during the winter hot baths will not only feel great, but can help you sleep well too.

Deep stretching and other light exercise can prepare the body for rest as well. Keep in mind that doing intense exercise for bed will only signal your body to have more energy than before! Going for a slow stroll or doing yoga before winding down can make an immense difference in your sleep cycle.

Being intimate with your spouse can also help you overcome insomnia. Intimacy relaxes and calms the body, signaling for your brain to shut down and rest. Sex before bed is certainly an excellent way to sleep solidly throughout the night.

Journaling before bed is also an amazing way to unload stress and your active thoughts. Most people have over active imaginations before bed, which can lead to transient insomnia or even chronic insomnia conditions. Write down everything you feel you should write, and then try to lay down and relax.

Overcoming insomnia might take time. Everyone responds differently to various methods of relaxation and sleep preparation. In some cases a combination of herbal remedies and relaxation techniques might be the best way to overcome insomnia.